£14m funding boost for affordable homes

A multi-million pound investment for more than 100 affordable new-builds will help Wiganers struggling to find a home, council bosses have said.

Work will start on the three sites in Hindley, Winstanley and Orrell in the next 12 months, subject to planning permission.

The £14m scheme is hoped to relieve a long-standing problem in the borough in that demand for one bedroom properties outweighs the current supply, especially after the introduction of the under-occupation tax.

Coun David Molyneux, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “This is a significant investment by the council in the type of new and affordable homes. We are committed to delivering new homes to suit demand and playing a key role in making sure housing needs are addressed.

“The types of homes, including bungalows, will support the delivery of our innovative approach to social care by enabling residents to live longer and healthier lives in their own homes and reduce the demand and costs on care services and on hospitals.”

Around 58 per cent of those on the council housing register are singles and couples with a one bedroom need.

The council will apply for a proportion of the funding from the Homes and Communities Agency.

The 110 homes will be let on affordable rents to those on the housing register with options for shared ownership or owner occupation.

The 30 on Mayfield Road, Orrell, will be on the site of the former Pines care home, alongside a supported housing development. The Winstanley site, the former Anthorn Road community centre, includes 20 bungalows for over 55s or those with care needs.

The Hindley development of 60 homes in Park Road will consist of eight two bedroom bungalows, 32 two bedroom homes, 16 three bedroom homes and four four-bedroom homes.